Lake Bled holidays

Relax and discover

Fun on the water: Take a 'Pletna' boat ride or hire a rowing boat across the glorious lake. When the temperature rises, visit one of the lakeside lidos, jump in and go for a swim.

Walking: The areas surrounding Bled are easily explored on foot, with a range of interesting walks. The scenic walk around the lake itself is a good start, from which you can climb to the ramparts of the castle for fantastic views. Lake Bled is situated on the edge of the Triglav National Park and is an excellent base from which to enjoy some of the walking routes in the park. Places of interest include Vintgar Gorge, Pokljuka Plateau and Pod Babjim zobom Cave. This magnificent and rugged landscape is inhabited by an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna with numerous rare and protected plant and animal species. Well-marked footpaths and mountain trails and numerous mountain huts enable hikers to visit the higher areas of the National Park.

Spa: The fairytale-like nature, unique climate and mysterious energy of Bled have always been thought to have special healing powers. The 'Živa' Spa & Wellness centre at the Hotel Golf in Bled will satisfy anyone looking for some invigoration or a soothing rest. The Luisa Studio at the Grand Hotel Toplice will is another centre dedicated to elegant baths, a paradise for fans of rest and relaxation.

Local Culture: Bled castle should be one of the highlights of any holiday. Although much of the building is has been updated in relatively recent times, Romanesque elements can still be found in the walls and late-Gothic in the chapel. The local cuisine is another major draw, try some fantastic regional flavours such as Karst ham, deer prosciutto, beef in Karst sauce with grilled polenta, veal stew, cottage cheese roulades & speciality cakes such as 'potica’ or 'gibinica'. There are also several great pizzeria throughout the town. To savour some fantastic regional cuisine, there are a number of options, good choices would be the Vila Prešeren restaurant, below the castle, right on the lake shore, offering great views. Alternatively, the fabulous terrace restaurant at the Pension Mayer with dishes such as venison fillet in cranberry sauce is a delight.

Festivals: In the summer months there are numerous events, ranging from village festivals to religious holidays in the Bled area. The festival not to be missed is the 'Bled days festival' which climaxes at the end of the night with a spectacular display of thousands of egg shell candles lighting up the lake, followed by fireworks (normally held on the 4th weekend in July). Also, throughout July is the Bled International Music Festival.

Evening atmosphere: Although the resort can be bustling in high season, generally the town is relatively laid back and relaxed. There are some great places to enjoy the glorious sun set across the lake.

Why not try -

• A horse and carriage ride can take you up to the medieval ‘Bled Castle’, with its fascinating museum and terraced restaurant offering breathtaking views
• A 'must' is to try a Bled speciality, 'Bljeska kremna rezina', a delicious vanilla and fresh cream cake
• Take a 'Pletna' ride across the lake to visit the glorious Church of the Assumption - ask to ring the "wishing bell" and see if your wish comes true!